Survey: Rising Interest in Sports Betting Among B.C. Youth Aged 12–18

• McCreary Centre Society releases results of 2023 B.C. Adolescent Health Survey
• More youth on sports betting platforms
• 12% of youth reported that they needed help for their gaming

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A recent study conducted in British Columbia sheds light on the concerning effects of gambling and gaming for money among young people aged 12 to 18. Discover more about [N/A – Quick Run]. A recent study conducted in British Columbia sheds light on the concerning effects of gambling and gaming for money among young people aged 12 to 18. This demographic is increasingly participating in high-stakes activities, including the rise of online sports betting, which is raising significant alarms for their mental health and societal engagement.

34% of Youth Engaged in Gaming or Gambling

The McCreary Centre Society’s 2023 BC Adolescent Health Survey reveals that 34% of youths from 59 out of the province’s 60 school districts have participated in online gaming or gambling for real money in the past year.

Legally, individuals must be at least 19 years old to gamble in B.C. The survey shows that males are more inclined to engage in various forms of gambling activities, including:

• Buying in-game items
• Participating in video game tournaments
• Streaming video games
• Purchasing lottery tickets or scratch cards
• Playing cards or dice, both in-person and online
• Betting on sports, in-person and online

Sports Betting on the Increase

Conducted every five years, the survey indicates a dramatic uptick in youth participation in gambling activities. Particularly, the purchase of virtual items in video games (like loot boxes) emerged as the most popular gambling activity. Reports show that:

• The percentage of youth engaging in online card or dice games rose from 2% in 2018 to 5% in 2023.
• The fraction of those betting on sports online doubled, with 13% engaging in daily online sports betting.

Gambling for Money on a Weekly Basis

Interestingly, fewer young people are buying lottery tickets, with participation dropping to less than half of what it was a decade ago, signalling a shift in gambling behaviours.

Only 4% reported gambling for money on a weekly basis. Risk factors contributing to this behaviour include:

• Living in poverty
• Challenging home environments
• Feelings of loneliness or being bullied
• Building connections with online friends through gaming and gambling

12% of Youth Said They Need Help

Persistent gambling and gaming can lead to serious issues like disrupted sleep patterns, unhealthy eating habits (often substituting meals with energy drinks), and academic difficulties, exacerbating mental health issues such as low self-esteem and depression.

In the past year, 12% of youths indicated they sought help for their gambling habits. Research suggests that those who maintain strong family connections are less likely to engage in gambling activities.

The BCLC’s PlayNow online platform is currently the only legal avenue for gambling in B.C., yet about 76% of youths reported participating in unregulated gambling platforms, signalling a pressing need for better oversight.

Parental Involvement

BCLC has measures in place to prevent underage gambling by verifying the ages of individuals trying to access its platforms and requiring identification at all casino entries. McCarthy from BCLC noted that it is crucial for families to discuss gambling concepts such as randomness and odds as children encounter these through video games and sports events.

He urged parents to advocate for safer gambling behaviours by setting limits on both time and spending, emphasising that understanding gambling is essential for preventing future gambling-related problems.

In conclusion, while the engagement of youth in gambling and gaming is rising, it is crucial to promote awareness and reinforce the importance of responsible gaming habits. Through collaboration between families and educational resources, we can better safeguard the future of our youth.

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Why Responsible Gambling Is Key: AGA President Explains Why Gambling Doesnt Have to Be Bad

Discover more about [N/A – Quick Run]. Key Points: While navigating the excitement of the gaming floor, prioritizing responsible gambling is essential for maintaining a balanced and enjoyable experience. Understanding the core principles of safe play ensures that entertainment remains a positive aspect of your visit.

• The American Gaming Association encourages bettors to engage in responsible gambling.
• The NFL season is about to commence.
• This season’s legal bets on NFL games are projected to reach approximately $30 billion.

Bill Miller, the president and CEO of the American Gaming Association (AGA), affirms that placing sports bets in a responsible manner enhances the experience for fans. He emphasizes that it’s crucial for gambling to remain enjoyable, social, and under control.

As the NFL regular season launches next week, with the defending champion Eagles set to host the Dallas Cowboys, the AGA is keen on promoting responsible betting.

This September marks the AGA’s Responsible Gaming Education Month, which aligns with the launch of the NFL regular season—widely regarded as the most wagered sport across the U.S.

The Association projects around $30 billion in bets will be placed on NFL games this season, reflecting an 8.5% growth from the previous year. Miller encourages all fans to participate wisely.

“Gambling isn’t bad if it’s done responsibly. It’s essential to have a solid game plan before placing any bets. Much like your favourite quarterback wouldn’t tackle a significant match without a strategy, betting works best when you establish your plan and adhere to it.” – Bill Miller.

Miller also reported that the industry is launching a new initiative called Play Smart from the Start, aimed at helping fans make educated betting choices. This program promotes starting with the right mindset, comprehending odds and terminology, and playing deliberately by setting boundaries.

While the NFL season gears up, Miller highlighted a pressing concern regarding illegal betting practices, emphasizing their threats to both fans and the sporting world.

Sustainability in Focus

Miller and the AGA argue that promoting responsible gambling is beneficial not only for bettors but for the industry as a whole. As legal sports betting continues to rise and profits for oddsmakers surge, the emphasis remains on keeping betting a fun and accountable experience.

He pointed out that illegal betting markets pose significant risks to fans, as they lack regulations and often exploit the public. “They mislead fans, create integrity issues, disregard safety measures, and siphon revenue from local communities,” Miller expressed.

Despite a reduction in illegal bookmaking due to the emergence of legal sportsbooks, the AGA estimates that the underground market still constitutes about 24% of the total U.S. sports betting industry.

Problem Betting

Reports indicate a rising trend in problem gambling, with researchers at UC San Diego’s Qualcomm Institute linking this escalation to the mainstream acceptance of sports betting.

“Following the Supreme Court’s decision to legalise sports betting, public health experts largely overlooked the potential risks,” said Dr. John W. Ayers, the senior author of the study. “Now, sports betting has expanded to 38 states, generating hundreds of billions in wagers, primarily online, amidst an unprecedented demand for assistance with gambling addictions.”

Additionally, the report indicates a staggering 23% increase in calls and inquiries to gambling helplines and treatment centres from 2018 to last year, underlining the urgent need for public education and responsible gaming initiatives.

Overall, as the NFL season launches, the AGA’s initiatives stress the importance of engaging in gambling responsibly. Their commitments set crucial standards for both the gaming industry and bettors alike, demonstrating that with a proper strategy, gambling can contribute to a healthier, more enjoyable entertainment landscape.

Summary

Bill Miller, representing the AGA, drives home the message that responsible gambling is key to enhancing the overall fan experience as the NFL season swings into action. Through initiatives like Play Smart from the Start, the industry aims to educate bettors about making informed decisions while enjoying sports betting safely. The rise of illegal gambling and increasing problem gambling rates highlight the need for continuous advocacy and education to ensure a sustainable gaming environment.

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Fanatics Emerges as a Top Contender in the Sports Betting Market, Says Analyst

• Fanatics emerging as clear leader in second tier of sportsbook operators
• Bet365 spending pullback could be sign of readying for a sale

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Fanatics emerging as clear leader in second tier of sportsbook operators. Discover more about [N/A – Quick Run]. In the US online sports betting (OSB) sector, Flutter Entertainment’s (NYSE: FLUT) FanDuel and DraftKings (NASDAQ: DKNG) dominate market share, but an interesting shift is happening. As per recent analysis, Fanatics is solidifying its lead among Tier 2 sportsbook operators.

The competition from DraftKings and FanDuel, which is often perceived as a duopoly, obscures a significant second tier that includes credible operators like Bet365, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, ESPN Bet, and Fanatics itself. According to analysts, Fanatics is rapidly gaining traction in this group.

“Our analysis shows OSB handle share momentum for T-2 operators is primarily limited to privately-held Fanatics, thanks to a robust betting product combined with a sustained promotional spend above the market average,” explains Stifel analyst Jeffrey Stantial.

This perspective aligns with recent data indicating significant market share gains by Fanatics and, to a lesser degree, Bet365, driven by their substantial promotional budgets—something that older institutions are currently sidelining.

“The balanced execution on OSB strategies from Fanatics has led to a clear divergence in market share performance, with the operator consistently improving its handle share,” adds Stantial.

Bet365: A Potential Sale in the Works?

Recent data suggest Bet365 is also on the rise within the private operators’ landscape, but changes in promotional spending have raised eyebrows. The UK-based entity has reduced its promotional outlay in the US market, leading to speculation that CEO Denise Coates might be preparing the company for a sale.

“While the reasons remain somewhat unclear, a combination of media reports and recent corporate maneuvers, such as withdrawing from China, indicates that Coates may be considering a sale, as evidenced by reduced promotional spending reflecting a strategic review,” notes Stantial.

In May, discussions surfaced that Bet365 was in talks with US investment firms regarding a potential sale, estimated to value the company at a whopping $12 billion. Such moves suggest that the operator might be adopting a more conservative approach to US expenditure to increase its attractiveness to potential buyers.

Alternative strategies under consideration involve a US initial public offering (IPO) or a partial sale to a private equity firm that could pave the way for an IPO.

The Rise of iGaming in a Competitive Market

iGaming, noted as the industry’s fastest-growing segment, is proving to be increasingly competitive among online gaming operators. Current leaders include BetMGM, DraftKings, and FanDuel, while Caesars Entertainment (NASDAQ: CZR) and Penn Entertainment (NASDAQ: PENN) are showing signs of gaining momentum.

“Structurally, we see iCasino’s market share landscape at risk of deconsolidation, especially with the top three operators—DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM—compressing their product lead significantly,” noted Stantial.

He concluded that should market share losses materialise within the online casino segment, it is likely that these leading operators will be the ones to falter, allowing competitors like Caesars, Fanatics, and Penn to rise in prominence.

In summary, Fanatics is emerging as a formidable player in the Tier 2 sportsbook arena. Analysts point to its strategic spending in promotions and product developments as key factors driving its growth. Furthermore, shifts in strategies among competitors such as Bet365 could alter the landscape even more, particularly with significant mergers and acquisitions potentially on the horizon.

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Various Casino Workers Qualify for One Big Beautiful Bill ‘No Tax on Tips’ Deduction

Various Casino Workers Qualify for One Big Beautiful Bill ‘No Tax on Tips’ Deduction. Discover more about [N/A – Quick Run]. Key Points: Understanding the diverse roles held by casino workers is essential to grasping how a gaming floor operates seamlessly. From the dealers managing the tables to the security staff ensuring fairness, these dedicated professionals are the backbone of the industry.

• Many casino workers qualify to have their tax obligations reduced
• “No Tax on Tips” was authorized through the One Big Beautiful Bill
• President Donald Trump pledged to reduce taxes on tips

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Among the many components of the Republicans’ One Big Beautiful Act, signed into law by President Donald Trump, many tipped workers now qualify for federal tax deductions. This legislation allows qualified workers, particularly in the casino industry, to deduct a notable amount from their taxable income.

The “No Tax on Tips” provision allows eligible workers to deduct up to $25,000 of their tipped earnings from their IRS tax obligation. The Department of the Treasury is expected to publish a list of qualifying jobs that fall under this provision.

As Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent noted, “For workers, $20 here and $20 there can make a big difference.” The OBBA’s tip deduction takes effect immediately and applies to the tax reporting for 2025.

Trump’s Pledge

During his 2024 presidential campaign, Trump promised to assist tipped workers in keeping more of their gratuities. He urged Congress to include this provision during a notable address in Las Vegas in January.

“We’re going to get it or you — no tax on tips,” said Trump at Circa Resort & Casino. He emphasized that the tips for workers in various roles will be theirs to keep entirely.

While this promise sounds grand, it’s important to note that the cap is set at $25,000 for tax deductions. This provision is authorized until 2028, after which Congress will need to reassess it.

Kamala Harris also pledged to reduce taxes on tips, prompting criticism from Trump, who referred to her as a “copycat.”

How Much Do Dealers Make?

The earnings for table-game dealers in Las Vegas can vary significantly based on various factors, including:

• Experience and tenure
• Skill level
• Personality
• Specific casino employment

Typically, dealers depend heavily on tips. Their hourly wage might be as low as AUD 12. Another significant factor in their earning potential is whether their casino has a tip-sharing policy, where tips are pooled and then distributed among staff.

Recently, major casino entities such as Caesars Entertainment, MGM Resorts, and Las Vegas Sands were included in a list of companies with the lowest median worker pay compared to their executives, dubbed the “Low-Wage 100.”

Conclusion

The introduction of the “No Tax on Tips” deduction is poised to positively impact numerous casino workers, allowing them to retain more of their hard-earned gratuities. By understanding the requirements and eligible positions, workers can take advantage of this beneficial change. As legislation evolves, it remains essential for casino employees to stay informed about their rights and financial opportunities.

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Everything You Need to Know About the Rise of Sports Betting Parlays and Football Betting

Discover more about [N/A – Quick Run]. Kalshi, a prominent player in the prediction markets space, is gearing up to offer innovative combined event contracts resembling traditional sports betting parlays. This marks a significant step in its competition against established sportsbooks.

Overview of Kalshi’s New Offerings

• Recent filing with the Commodities Futures Trading Commission (CFTC): Kalshi announced plans to self-certify bets that mirror parlays.
• Competitive Edge: This development signals Kalshi’s intent to directly compete with traditional sportsbooks, which frequently rely on parlays for revenue.

How Do Kalshi’s Parlays Work?

According to Kalshi’s regulatory filing, their contracts will ask the question: “Will occur in ?” Here’s what to expect:

• Outcomes: Participants can bet on various achievements, such as game results, player statistics, or team performance during specific events.
• Payout Structure: Successful bets will yield a set payment to winners, while losing bets will receive no payout, following the standard protocol for Kalshi’s yes/no event contracts.

Interestingly, traditional terms like “parlay” or “multileg” are notably absent from their filings.

Football-Specific Design

This new offering appears tailored for the upcoming 2025 NFL season, indicative of Kalshi’s focus on football. Key points include:

• Recognition of FootballStats: The filing lists FootballStats as the reference for determining betting outcomes.
• Broadened Offerings: Kalshi has also signaled plans to self-certify player props, game sides, and totals for college football and NFL games, representing a territory traditionally dominated by sportsbooks.

Industry Impact

Analysts believe the introduction of parlay-style bets could reshape customer engagement dynamics for both Kalshi and competitors like Polymarket, as follows:

• Driver of Earnings: Parlays are a major contributing factor to sportsbooks’ profits, attracting bettors despite their complex nature and lower success rates.
• Increased Customer Loyalty: Offering high-leverage betting opportunities could entice bettors, potentially creating a more dedicated customer base.
• Market Trends: Major companies like DraftKings have acknowledged the significant loss of funds when just one leg of a bet fails, emphasizing parlays’ high stakes.

What’s Next for Kalshi?

In addition to its parlay plans, Kalshi’s collaboration with Crypto.com, in partnership with Daily Fantasy Sports, adds to its growing influence. Some of the highlighted aspects include:

• Partnership with Crypto.com: Aimed at reaching clients across 16 states, solidifying its foothold in a competitive market segment.
• Innovative Technology: Kalshi is leveraging its proprietary technology to operate across various fantasy sports and sports betting frameworks.

Conclusion

Kalshi’s upcoming launch of football parlays represents a pivotal moment in the betting landscape, positioning itself as a formidable contender to traditional sportsbooks. By structuring its offerings around current football events and trends, Kalshi seeks to attract a new audience of sports betting enthusiasts. Keep an eye on this market’s development as it may well redefine how bettors engage with sports wagering.

Summary

In summary, Kalshi is set to introduce football parlays, challenging traditional sportsbooks by offering innovative betting options that allow for strategic combinations of bets. This initiative not only aims to enhance user engagement but also positions Kalshi as a serious player in the competitive intersection of sports betting and traditional forecasting markets. Stay tuned as this unfolds in the lead-up to the 2025 NFL season!

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